Communications jobs in Southampton

About the role:

We’re looking for a talented Communications & Network Engineer to join a highly capable, multidisciplinary engineering team working on cutting-edge autonomous and uncrewed maritime platforms.

This is a hands-on role where you’ll design, integrate, and support secure and resilient communication systems that power real-world operations. You’ll be working at the forefront of innovation across defence, security, and commercial sectors — helping to deliver mission-critical technology in challenging environments.

What you’ll be doing:

• Designing and maintaining onboard and shore-based communications and IP networks
• Integrating RF, 4G/5G, satellite, and line-of-sight communication systems
• Configuring routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, and encryption solutions
• Supporting system integration, commissioning, and fault-finding across vessels and systems
• Taking part in sea trials, testing, and customer demonstrations
• Developing resilient and secure communications strategies
• Producing technical documentation and network diagrams
• Collaborating with software, systems, and electrical engineering teams
• Supporting deployments and post-trial activities [Communicat...eer - JDPS | Word]

What we’re looking for:

• Proven experience in a communications, network, or systems engineering role
• Strong knowledge of IP networking (TCP/IP, routing, switching, VLANs, QoS)Experience with secure networks (firewalls, VPNs, encryption)Hands-on experience integrating communications systems in challenging environments
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot under pressure
• Excellent communication and documentation skills

Nice to have:

• Experience in maritime, defence, aerospace, or autonomous systems
• Knowledge of satellite or radio communications
• Familiarity with resilient and redundant network design
• Certifications such as CCNA, CCNP, or CompTIA Network+
• Experience supporting systems through trials or live deployments

Why join us?

• Work on cutting-edge autonomous maritime technology
• Be part of a collaborative, high-performing engineering team
• Opportunity to work on real-world deployments and sea trials
• Contribute to innovative solutions in defence and advanced technology sectors

What we provide:

• 25 days holiday per year, plus paid bank holiday
• After two years’ consecutive service, one additional day’s annual leave up to a maximum of five additional days annual leave
• Holiday buy/sell, up to five days per calendar year
• Flexi working, core hours 10:00 to 15:00, subject to departmental requirements
• Private Medical Insurance with optional family cover
• Pension scheme with a 5% employer contribution, there is no cap on the employee contribution level
• Life assurance 3x salary
• Group Income Protection
• Health Care Cash Plan
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Electric Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing mental health and wellbeing support
• Professional membership reimbursement

Important to know:

Due to the nature of our work many of our roles require a UK nationality and the ability to obtain a security clearance. Applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment must meet the requirement of right to work in the UK and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information and will be subject to Government security checks.

Kraken Works Limited is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination and offers equal opportunities to all. Applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and marriage and civil partnerships.

Benefits:

• Bereavement leave
• Casual dress
• Company events
• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexitime
• Free parking
• On-site parking
• Private medical insurance
• Referral programme

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Fareham, Hampshire: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

Application question(s):

• Have you lived in the UK for the past 5 years?
• What is your notice period?
• What are your salary expectations?
• Do you have proven experience in a communications, network, or systems engineering role?

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (preferred)

Work Location: In person